Language Fun

By Alice Lapuerta

Looking for language-learning fun?
Try these easy, entertaining games!

Memory

Instructions: Memory is a simple game for two players and more that can be played in different languages. Mixed cards are placed face-down on the table. The goal is to find as many identical pairs as possible. Each player turns over two cards. If you haven’t found a pair, return the cards to their original location. If you have found a pair, you get to search for another pair. The winner is the player who has found the most pairs.

Make It Bilingual: For our bilingual purposes, every time you turn over a pair, identify the picture first in one language, then in another. Or you can play the first round entirely in one language, and the second round in another language. Kids love this game! In addition to training vocabulary, it also trains their cognitive abilities as well as their concentration.

Tip: If you don’t have a set of memory-cards at home, try making them yourself! It doesn’t have to be anything complicated or fancy: with a pair of scissors, cut 24 squares out of a sheet of cardboard or paper. Make 12 identical pairs of random, simple objects: the sun/moon/stars, house, tree, flower, cat, dog, or simple symbols. Let your child do it!

Pack A Suitcase

Instructions: Get a small backpack and tell your child you are going
on an imaginary vacation. What are you going to pack?

Parent: “I am packing a suitcase and take along … a pair of socks!” (put socks into the bag).
Child: “I am packing a suitcase and take along… a pair of socks and a blue t-shirt!
Parent: Repeat socks, t-shirt, and add a third item.

Make It Bilingual: This game, too, can be played in different languages (play once in one language then again in the second language). Start out with the number of objects your child is able to remember (5 might be a good number to start with. If your child is older you might want use more, or less if s/he is younger) and then build up a larger vocabulary.

WANT MORE FUN?
Don't miss this issue's Crossword Puzzle! CLICK HERE to test your knowledge!

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